Business Development

Guidance and Resources for Starting a Business in Marion County

The Marion County Chamber of Commerce helps owners and leaders from area businesses understand the requirements of doing business in Marion County. The chamber’s Small Business Division is charged with creating an environment that sustains and increases the business base while decreasing the cost of doing business for chamber members. The division offers a complete Business Guide that serves as an excellent resource for both start-ups and existing companies.

Highlights from the Business Guide include:

Selecting the Right Organization Type – It’s important to choose the right legal designation for your business with the advice of an attorney. Possible business types include:

Sole Proprietorship
Partnership
Corporation
Limited Liability Company
S Corporation

Small Business Assistance – Marion County offers a powerful business support network that includes the Small Business Development Center, a tremendous resource that provides literature and professional consultation at no charge.

Federal Programs – After you’ve chosen the form your business will take, you’ll need to register it with the state and federal governments. You will also need an understanding of required taxes and withholding, and you’ll need to know about any Occupational Safety and Health Administration requirements you will have to meet.

Taxes and Unemployment Insurance – It certainly comes as no surprise that your business will have to pay taxes. The type of taxes you must pay will vary depending on the form of your business. In addition, if your company employs others, you will have to pay unemployment compensation insurance.

Tax Incentives – Your business may qualify for tax incentives from the state. The Chamber can help you locate more information about these incentives. Call 304. 363.0442 for more information.

Local Government Programs – If your business is located in the City of Fairmont, you will need to obtain a business license, and Marion County may require you to register the business in certain circumstances.

Funding Sources – You have a variety of resources for funding a new business or an expansion of an existing one. The MCCC has access to many financing resources, from banks and Small Business Administration loans to funding from the West Virginia Economic Development Authority. Contact the MCCC for a full listing of all of the current available sources.

Your Business Plan – This is one of the most important steps in creating a new business. Your plan should cover these five main topics:

General Information
Business Description
Management Profile
Market Information
Financial Information

Real Estate – Marion County boasts a number of excellent sites for your business. The cities of Fairmont and Mannington have Main Street organizations to assist you in selecting the best locations within those cities.

Insurance – Your insurance needs will depend on the type of business you operate. Visiting several agents will help you select the package that fits your needs best.